ACC Automation: PLC & Industrial Control Learning
Practical Tips and Techniques
ACC Automation is growing — and part of that growth is bringing in voices from outside my own experience. I want to introduce you to Chris Urban, an automation educator and PLC trainer based near Montreal, Quebec, who has been teaching technicians and engineers for over 30 years. Chris reached out after finding the ACC PLC Simulator, and … Read more
The ACC PLC Simulator is a free, browser-based ladder-logic editor and PLC scan engine. There is nothing to download or install. You open it in Chrome, Edge, or Firefox and start programming immediately. I built this simulator so that anyone learning PLC programming can get hands-on practice without needing hardware. It uses standard PLC register … Read more
One of the most powerful features of the Productivity Suite software is the built-in PLC simulator. If you don’t have the physical P1-M622-16DR hardware yet—or you’re developing logic at your desk before heading to the plant floor—the simulator lets you program, modify, and test your ladder logic without a single piece of hardware connected. This … Read more
The Iron Heart of Your Network: The Industrial Ethernet Switch. Unboxing and Mastering the STRIDE Industrial Ethernet Switch Did you know that over 40% of industrial network failures are attributed not to software bugs or hackers, but to simple environmental stress?Imagine a scorching summer day on a factory floor, ambient temperatures rising above 100°F, or … Read more
If the Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) is the brain of an industrial automation system, the power supply is undoubtedly its heart. Without a clean, reliable flow of energy, the most innovative control systems in the world are just expensive paperweights.In the complex ecosystem of an industrial control cabinet, managing power isn’t just about turning things … Read more
In today’s rapidly evolving world of manufacturing and automation, it’s essential to understand how Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) operate. However, many common misconceptions about PLCs can create confusion. We will clarify five widespread myths about PLCs, focusing on their unique functions, programming challenges, and the need for a thorough approach to their use. By addressing … Read more
How to use the C2-NRED Package Compatibility Finder… Are you wondering if your Node-RED program package is compatible with the Click PLUS PLC C2-NRED module? How do you find the correct C2-NRED package? This is the most common frustration with the C2-NRED Node-RED module for the Click PLC. This Node-Red module currently has version 3.0.2 … Read more
Programming a C-more CM5 HMI (Human-Machine Interface) or any other unit can initially seem daunting, but it can be a rewarding experience with the proper guidance. This post will walk you through the steps to program a C-more HMI unit, specifically the CM5 HMI model. Whether you’re a beginner or have some experience with HMI … Read more
C-More CM5 (HMI) programming software programs the CM5 series of controllers. This software and hardware can be used in various industries, such as manufacturing, automotive, and food processing. It is known for its user-friendly interface and powerful features that make designing and implementing HMI applications easy. Each of the C-More series will have its own … Read more
We will now install Guest Additions on our Windows 11 VirtualBox. Oracle VirtualBox is a widely used software that provides a virtual environment for operating multiple operating systems on a single computer. It enables users to create virtual machines and install various operating systems like Windows, Linux, and macOS. One of the most beneficial features … Read more